Preparing to Start 1811

Thomas Rowlandson's "Preparing to Start," an 1811 watercolor, captures the excitement and energy of a horse race. The image depicts jockeys and their steeds lining up at the starting gate, surrounded by a throng of eager onlookers. Rowlandson, known for his satirical and humorous depictions of everyday life, uses caricature to highlight the individual personalities of both the riders and the spectators, creating a lively and engaging scene. This artwork is part of the collection at The Art Institute of Chicago, showcasing the artist's keen observation of British society and the enduring popularity of horse racing.